Remaining league games

Victory for City would put them level with Sir Alex Ferguson's men with just two games remaining.

United have the edge in the head-to-heads, having won 67 of the 161 matches between the two clubs with City coming out on top in 44.

However, the last time the two sides met in the league, City thumped United 6-1 - the Red Devils' heaviest-ever Premier League defeat and the first time they had conceded six goals at Old Trafford since 1930.

"This is the derby game of all derby games," said Ferguson. "It is our city rivals and that makes everyone step up a notch in terms of anticipation.

Did you know?

Manchester City have scored 87 goals so far this season. That's their highest total in the top flight since they netted 100 during the 1957-58 season

"Our fans will look upon it [a possible league win] as a special one because they are our fans' most bitter rivals, there is no getting away from that. It means everything to the fans and I think going into work on Tuesday morning will be the most important day of their lives for both sets of supporters.

"People are brought up through their grandfathers, their great grandfathers, their grandmothers to be what they are. You can't change a family's traits. It is steeped in the blood of these supporters and they will give everything to win this game on Monday."

With so much at stake, City manager Roberto Mancini is hoping that this derby will pass peacefully.

LAWRO'S PREDICTION

Mark LawrensonFootball Analyst

"I see Sir Alex Ferguson treating this match like a Champions League group game, where they need a point. And the way to get it against good sides is to always pose a threat."

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